On Having Gifts

AM Psalm 105:1-22 • PM Psalm 105:23-45
Isa. 65:1-12 • 1 Tim. 4:1-16 • Mark 12:13-27

“Have nothing to do with silly myths."

“Do not depart from the faith by giving heed to silly or deceitful spirits.”

“Let no one despise your youth. Hold to your teaching.”

I cannot say I am being despised by my youth or belief in doctrines of demons as First Timothy warns. But we are asked in First Timothy to “set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith…”

And, most clearly we are also told:

“Do neglect the gift you have” (note how there is no question but that you have a gift!).

“Practice these duties,” we are told, “and hold to that. For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially those who believe.” (notice that even unbelievers are included in that utterance.) I think Timothy was a bit of a poet. Otherwise, where did he learn of being afraid to display one’s gifts?

Another poet, Derek Walcott, said, “For every poet it is always morning in the world. Elemental awe are always our early beginnings.”

Written by Rebecca Newth

Rebecca Newth is a poet, participates in church events and sings in the choir.